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Summary: General information on Health and Medical facilities

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Medical and Health Information

Healthcare in Northern /Cyprus is of a reasonable standard, and the modernization of the hospitals and medical facilities have improved things greatly in the last few years. There are both private and government hospitals, mainly situated in the larger towns. The central state hospital is in Nicosia, with smaller hospitals in Kyrenia (Girne), Lefke, Famagusta and Guzelyurt. Most towns and even some smaller villages have a doctor’s surgery. Many of the private sector doctors speak English as they have often been trained in the UK or USA.

Accident and emergency facilities are available at local hospitals.

Ambulance call: 112

Medical insurance
As North Cyprus is not a member of the EU, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and system it operates is not applicable here, Travel Insurance is a must should you fall ill and require any medical treatment. Check exactly what is covered by your policy, as not all costs for medicines etc may be refundable.

Pharmacies
Pharmacies (chemists) sell the majority of prescription drugs over the counter, often without the need for a doctor’s visit. For example, if you need a course of antibiotics for a simple illness, you can simply prescribe for yourself and buy the medication from the pharmacy. Similar to pharmacists in the UK, pharmacists can also help and advise you which is the best medication for your condition. The prices for medicines can vary tremendously, from below UK price to more than triple.

Dental and eye treatment
Dental treatment is of a good standard, and often much cheaper than a private dentist in the UK. The government set a scale for fees for dentists, which most follow. However, it is safer to request the likely charge before treatment commences.
Eye tests are available in virtually all of the towns, but make sure you go to a qualified practitioner. Contact lenses are available at a reasonable price, and there is a wide range of designer, quality spectacles which are much cheaper than in the UK.

Sensible Precautions

Do not drink the tap water as it is not treated to the same standard as in the UK. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive.
Most stomach upsets are caused by a mixture of a change in the diet, too much sun, and often too much alcohol. Imodium or similar medications can quickly resolve the problem.
Sunstroke and sunburn can catch you unawares. A high factor sun block and a hat are recommended, and avoid direct sunlight on the head especially during the middle of the day. Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day.
Sea urchins are common in North Cyprus. If you are unlucky enough to step on one, a sterilized sewing needle or tweezers are effective aids for removing spines. Olive Oil can also be useful at easing out the offending articles. Wear a pair of swim shoes for walking over rocks to avoid them.
Mosquito and sand fly bites can cause nasty reactions in some. Anti-histamine cream rubbed on the bite and surrounding area can help bring relief to the itching.
Snake bites are rare but should the worst happen, cover the bite with a cloth, and keep the patient calm. Apply a tourniquet above the bite if it is on a limb but not so tight as to cut the blood supply off. Seek medical attention immediately.

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